stories of a Town – Gilbert, Arizona

Monthly Archives: December 2012

As I think about the tragedy that occurred in Newtown, Connecticut last week, I realize we have reason to be extra grateful here in Gilbert this holiday season.

At a time when everyone is noticing the heroics of teachers, public safety officials and volunteers who rushed to help at Sandy Hook Elementary, I wanted you all to know how very appreciative I am of our workforce and the quality services you deliver for our residents, families and children throughout the year here in Gilbert.

Since the tragedy occurred, the Gilbert Police and Fire Departments have been working closely with our schools and EMS to be sure we are prepared if any major incidents should happen. Both the Mayor and I have received phone calls and emails from relieved parents who were happy to see an increased police presence outside their child’s schools or wanted to commend Town staff for all we do to keep their children safe.

As we look ahead to 2013, we will continue our hard work to ensure that our community remains a safe and wonderful place to live, work and play. I wish you all happy holidays. Thank you for all you do for our community

As the year quickly comes to an end, I’d like to reflect on Gilbert’s growth during the past year. Gilbert is thriving and, according to our Office of Economic Development, 2012 has brought nearly 1,500 jobs and $150.7 million in capital investments.

Our focus, as we work toward build-out, is to attract businesses with an emphasis in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) industries. This year, we have had several great successes in these areas, including the announcement of a new VA Clinic, Banner Health Center, the Ironwood Cancer and Research Center, as well as the expansion of Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center. In addition, Orbital Sciences is currently pursuing a foreign trade zone (FTZ) status for their Gilbert facility, which will result in further investments ultimately making it the largest satellite integration and assembly facility in the world. ASU startup Heliae continues its extensive growth as it embarks on a four-year lease for the 40 acres of land next to their current site.

In addition, as part owners, we are dedicated to our investment in the growth and success of Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. The planned expansions are expected to accommodate up to 20 million passengers annually, which is half the size of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. I look forward to all of the benefits its development will bring to the Town.

We have also made great strides in our tourism efforts this year. Residence Inn Phoenix Gilbert located on the campus of MD Anderson Cancer Center is near completion, while the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel has announced a flag expansion that will make it the largest hotel in Gilbert.

Our downtown Heritage District is thriving with more businesses expanding and new ones looking to open. Popular restaurant, Postino Winecafe opened in March of this year and, already, owner Craig DeMarco is looking to build a Mexican eatery and potentially partner on at least two additional restaurant concepts in downtown Gilbert.

I am also encouraged by the potential growth that Gilbert will see in the year ahead. We look forward to sharing our successes as we work to further develop our community, making it a tremendous place for people to live, work, and play.